I have not used a flat tappet since around 1997...but when I used them in the past I never ever even allowed them to break in properly(fast idle 20 minutes) and I have never lost a lobe. I never used light springs either to break in...just used the ones for the cam I had.I always fired them up and held the rpm up just enough to keep it running a little fast until it warmed up enough to idle. Must be just lucky. Either that or it is the oil??? :?